This course explores the broadening nature of literacy and literacy instruction in the 21st century. The course addresses both the theory and pedagogy of literacy instruction. Topics range from emergent literacy to comprehension of narrative and expository discourse and address reading and writing instruction that engages students in the K-5 classroom. This course has a particular focus on designing literacy instruction for culturally and linguistically diverse students that positions the literacy teacher as a reflective practitioner with a focus on teaching for social justice.